A high-angle view of a young girl who is a wheelchair user having fun with her family in a public playground.
Children and families will soon have more ways to enjoy local indoor and outdoor recreation. With support from Columbia Basin Trust, parks and facilities in 25 communities are being upgraded to enhance public spaces and create more accessible, inclusive and welcoming environments for play.
“These improvements will reduce barriers to access for children with diverse physical, developmental, cognitive and neurodiverse needs, fostering a more inclusive recreational experience for Basin families,” says Hannah Holden, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “Whether indoors or outdoors, these projects promote active and enjoyable play, health and well-being for more children.”
Community halls, playgrounds and other recreation areas will become more accessible through additions such as adaptive play equipment, sensory-friendly features like sound panels and lighting, upgraded playground surfaces, natural design elements, and improved access to pools, trails and seating areas.
The Trust is supporting these improvements in 25 Basin communities with nearly $1.2 million in funding.
Here are a few examples of projects being supported. To view the full list of projects, click here.
Canyon – Natural and Accessible Playground Enhancements
At the heart of community life, the Canyon Community Association’s facilities—including a hall, park, campground, ball field and horse arena—serve as gathering places for families. Enhancements at Canyon Community Park will include a new natural playground and accessible equipment tailored to children with diverse abilities.
“Our group’s motto is ‘Inspiring Healthy Living Through Recreation,’” said Lawrence Kolthammer, Board Director, Canyon Community Association. “The new design, equipment and surfacing will create more opportunities for active fun and remove barriers to play for our children, families and visitors.”
Casino – Sensory-Friendly Additions to Community Hall and Park
With new sensory-friendly outdoor playground equipment at Casino Community Park and sound panels, and inclusive toys at Casino Community Hall, children and youth with sensory needs will be better supported creating a more inclusive environment.
“Our hall and park are a hub for activities and events—it’s important that it feels welcoming and safe for everyone,” said Shelby Loeppky, President, Casino Recreation Society. “These improvements will make a big difference for children and families being able to fully participate in Casino Recreation activities and events.”
Procter – Indoor and Outdoor Play Features for Diverse Needs
The Procter Community Society is making indoor and outdoor spaces more inclusive. Inside the hall, sensory play features such as a maze, musical instruments and interactive panels will support children with diverse needs. Outside, new accessible playground equipment and seating will welcome more families.
“Like so many rural communities, our hall, park and playground are critical to the well-being of our residents,” said Kim Palfenier, President, Procter Community Society. “These improvements mean more opportunities for children and families to stay active and connected.”
Riondel – Inclusive Swing and Accessible Pathways
New accessible pathways and an inclusive swing—designed to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices—will make the Riondel Community Centre’s playground more welcoming for all children.
“The current playground doesn’t fully meet all children’s needs, limiting enjoyment for some families,” said Craig Stanley, Regional Manager, Regional District of Central Kootenay. “With the addition of just one inclusive swing and accessible pathways, the playground becomes a space for new kinds of play, engagement and fun.”
Columbia Basin Trust supports the efforts of the people in the Columbia Basin. To learn more about the Trust’s programs and initiatives, and how it helps deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Basin, visit ourtrust.org or call 1.800.505.8998.
